Sydney Northern Beaches’ Solar Businesses in Panel Discussion

On Tuesday 25th of June, Balgowlah RSL played host to over 250 local community members who came to see a panel discussion of Solar businesses based in the Manly Solar Hub.

The panel, assembled by Angus Gemmell Solar Choice, consisted of David Veal (Solar Pro), Jono Burke (Solar Energy Enterprises), Simon Kidston (Genex), Matt Lasauce (Solar Choice) and Jeff Sykes (Solar Choice). Invited but unable to attend were representatives from Tesla, Wirsol and Edify Energy.

The community came out in numbers following the local Warringah seat being claimed by Zali Steggall who mounted a campaign in support of renewable energy in the home of renowned climate sceptic Tony Abbott.

The panel discussed some of the positive trends playing out in the industry, including busting a popular myth that renewable energy is more expensive than its fossil fuel alternatives.

In addition, the panel discussed some of the major barriers preventing a greater uptake in Solar PV and Batteries in the residential and commercial markets. Some of the noted barriers including landlord inertia, lack of education/knowledge and difficulties in getting residents and businesses to prioritise solar over other projects were mentioned.

The night which included many questions from the audience, concluded with a discussion of some of the innovations entering the market place such as the Sustainable Australia Fund, fractional ownership of solar farms and the possibilities of a virtual power plant across Sydney’s northern beaches.

We look forward to more community events around Sydney as the technology and financial incentives in Renewable Energy continue to offer residents and businesses an immediate way to control energy costs and carbon emissions.

 

Jeff Sykes